Are Shops Closed on Sunday in London?

By Robert Palmer

Are Shops Closed on Sunday in London?

In London, the shopping scene is vibrant and diverse, with a wide range of shops catering to every taste and preference. However, if you’re planning a shopping spree in the city, it’s important to know whether shops are open on Sundays or not. Let’s explore this topic in more detail.

The Sunday Trading Act

London operates under the Sunday Trading Act, which regulates the opening hours of shops on Sundays. Under this legislation, larger stores have restricted trading hours on Sundays, while smaller retailers have more flexibility. It’s worth noting that there are exemptions to these rules for certain types of establishments, such as pharmacies and petrol stations.

Large Stores

Larger stores with a retail space exceeding 280 square meters are subject to specific restrictions on Sunday trading hours. These stores can only open for a maximum of six consecutive hours between the hours of 10 am and 6 pm. This means that they may choose to open from 10 am to 4 pm or from 12 pm to 6 pm.

It’s important to plan your shopping accordingly if you intend to visit larger stores on a Sunday.

Smaller Retailers

Smaller retailers in London have more freedom when it comes to their Sunday trading hours. They are not bound by the specific restrictions imposed on larger stores and can choose their own opening times. This means that you’ll find a variety of smaller shops open on Sundays throughout the city.

Note:

  • If you’re looking for unique boutiques or independent shops, Sundays can be an excellent day for exploring London’s hidden gems.
  • However, it’s always a good idea to check the opening hours of individual stores before making a special trip, as some smaller retailers may choose to close on Sundays.

Exceptions and Special Occasions

As mentioned earlier, there are exceptions to the Sunday trading restrictions for certain types of establishments. Pharmacies, petrol stations, and shops located in designated tourist zones are allowed to operate without any time restrictions. This ensures that essential services and tourist-oriented businesses can cater to the needs of visitors.

If you’re in need of medication or fuel on a Sunday, you can rest assured that there will be options available to you.

Additionally, it’s important to note that during special occasions and holiday periods, such as Christmas and Easter, there may be temporary changes to the usual Sunday trading hours. Retailers often extend their opening times during these periods to accommodate the higher demand for shopping.

In Conclusion

In London, the opening hours of shops on Sundays are regulated by the Sunday Trading Act. Larger stores have restricted trading hours between 10 am and 6 pm, while smaller retailers have more flexibility in choosing their opening times. It’s always advisable to check the opening hours of individual shops before planning your shopping trip.

  • If you’re looking for larger stores, plan your visit between their permitted trading hours of 10 am and 6 pm.
  • If you prefer exploring smaller retailers, Sundays can be an excellent day for discovering unique boutiques in London.

Remember: There are exceptions for pharmacies, petrol stations, and shops in designated tourist zones which operate without time restrictions. During special occasions and holidays, extended trading hours may apply. Stay informed and make the most of your shopping experience in London!